You will be met on arrival at Maputo airport and transferred to Anvil Bay. Transfer time: 4 - 5 hours. Option of a helicopter transfer at an additional cost.
Anvil Bay is a private and exclusive barefoot beach camp on a rare untouched stretch of coastal wilderness in Mozambique’s most southern national park. Created with the smallest possible footprint to preserve the wilderness and special sense of place the camp is set up on the beach under canvas and thatch. Just 9 Casinhas are nestled in the dune forest on stilted wooden decks each with its own stretch of beachfront.
Anvil Bay is on a beach in Africa where it is as it’s been for thousands of years. On a rare unspoiled stretch of beach guests get to experience life close to nature but with all the comforts of home. The perfect beach holiday to just relax and recover from a strenuous overland safari. Or go on new adventures at sea on the beach or exploring the lakes forests and savannas of the park.
Escape to a world of simple pleasures and lifetime memories. Sunrises over the ocean and sunsets across the Parks pristine lakes and vast savannas. Evenings under the stars around a campfire. Miles of untouched beaches and an ocean teeming with marine life to explore.
Anvil Bay is a dream destination for nature lovers in search of the perfect get away from it all wilderness beach experience.
Canvas tents provide shade on the beach and a thatched retreat in the forest shelter from occasional storms. The beach bar lounge and restaurant are centrally positioned on the bay with the accommodations either side so guests can book to be close to the action or enjoy even more isolation on the north and south ends.
The accommodations, called Casinhas (a little home in Mozambique) are nestled in the canopy of the coastal forest just a few steps away from the secluded white sand beach. They blend a small footprint, natural materials and local craftsmanship with simple functional furnishings and fine linen.
Designed to be your home from home you will find a well stocked minibar and beverage station, luxury indoor and outdoor showers and a private dining deck en-suite. The thatch and canvas design takes advantage of the cooling ocean breezes and the canvas sides can be rolled up to truly get in touch with the natural surrounds. Outdoor lighting has been kept to a minimum in order to better see the majestic African night sky and so as not to disturb the turtles in nesting season.
All non-motorized activities activities are included in your rate at Anvil Bay:
Beach Walks
With miles of stunning unspoiled coastline north and south of our bay, you can walk as far as you like and are unlikely to come across another soul. There are some beautiful ocean and sunset viewpoints atop some of the world’s highest coastal dunes.
Dune Forest Trails
You are not limited to just strolling on the beach! The camp is situated in a coastal forest and there are stunning walks where one can explore the inland areas of Anvil Bay, Ponta Chemucane. Whether you are a keen birder who would like to spot an elusive feathered friend or you just want to take a relaxing stroll to the nearby lake and view the resident Hippos there are plenty of options for you. If you prefer you can explore by yourself, just ask for directions, or a guide can accompany you to show you the route.
Beach Bikes
The lodge has innovative ‘Fat Sand’ bikes that guests can use to explore the coastline. Riding on the beach is best done around low tide when the going is a bit easier.
Rock Pool Exploration
Collect some reef walker shoes from the activity centre and explore the tidal rock pools along the shoreline at low tide. A fun activity for all ages, one of the on-site marine guides will show you where the best pools can be found.
Sea Kayaks
A selection of kayaks includes 2 adult kayaks, 2 double kayaks and 2 children’s kayaks along with paddles and lifejackets to keep you safe. Subject to sea conditions.
Stand Up Paddle Boards
Try out the exciting and challenging activity of Stand Up Paddle Boarding! These big surfboard style craft are designed to be paddled standing up but can be just as much fun when used in a kneeling position. Be prepared to spend some time learning, falling off and having fun! Subject to sea conditions.
Body Boarding
A fun and easy activity for all ages, all the thrills of surfing with much less effort! Grab a board from the activity centre and head down to the shoreline to catch some waves. Speak to the activity team about the safest place along the beach to get on the water. Subject to sea conditions. Participants must be able to swim.
Beach Games
A selection of beach toys and games are available in the treasure chest at the beach lounge. Burn off some energy with a quick kick-about, a spot of Frisbee, a game of volleyball or some touch rugby.
Fishing from the beach
Enjoy the exciting experience of angling on the Mozambican coastline. You will get a basic introduction, equipment and someone to guide you to the best spots. If you’re familiar with the techniques grab a rod and explore the options. Species typically caught from shore include three spot pompano, stumpnose, shad, bonefish, and trevally. Catch and release encouraged.
The following activities are available at an additional cost:
Snorkeling trips
Discover the world below the surface of the sparkling Indian Ocean by taking a snorkeling trip. You will be provided with all equipment and an introduction to snorkeling techniques. Travel a short distance by boat to one of the exclusive coral reef snorkeling sites where you will be able to spend time observing the diverse marine life found at Anvil Bay. Participants must be able to swim. Subject to sea conditions.
Ocean Safari
Go on a safari experience with a difference! Set sail on one of Anvil Bay’s purpose designed boats for a 2 hour leisurely cruise along the coastline in search of marine animals big and small. Dolphins are frequent visitors to these shores, as are turtles and the occasional Whale shark & Manta Ray. Depending on the circumstances and the behavior of the animal it may also be possible to enter the water and interact with some of these magnificent creatures. In season humpback whales can also be encountered up close and personal during their annual migration. Subject to sea conditions. Participants must be able to swim.
Whale Watching
From July to November every year the Southern Hemisphere Humpback Whales make their annual migration along the Mozambican coastline on their way to and from their winter breeding grounds. Keep an eye out for the telltale blow as they surface to breathe, or perhaps you will be lucky enough to witness them breaching, lob tailing or pec rolling. The whales can be easily sighted direct from shore but if you would like to get a closer look then book an Ocean safari in the whale season.
Ocean Fishing
The Indian Ocean off the coast of Anvil Bay, Ponta Chemucane offers some of the best sport and game fishing in the world. Species such as black, blue and striped marlin, sailfish, wahoo, dorado, various tuna species, king and queen mackerel, kingfish and barracuda are all found here. The lodge offers half day guided fishing charters from the unique jet-powered wave boat. All fishing activities are conducted in line with international conservation guidelines. Subject to sea conditions.
Transfer from Anvil Bay to Maputo Airport.
Optional: Helicopter transfer at an additional cost.
NB - this lodge offers the perfect add-on of a wildlife safari in South Africa. Contact us for details.
